Massad Boulos, Tiffany Trump’s father-in-law, has been named Senior Advisor for Africa by the State Department.
This appointment coincides with discussions regarding a potential mineral deal between the U.S. and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Boulos, who also serves as Senior Advisor on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs, will join Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Corina Sanders on a tour of the DRC, Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda starting Thursday.
The officials will meet with regional leaders and business figures, aiming to promote peace in eastern Congo and encourage U.S. private sector investment.
This move follows speculation that Boulos could play a key role in a deal similar to the U.S.-Ukraine mineral partnership, given the DRC’s vast mineral wealth.
Eastern Congo faces a severe security and humanitarian crisis due to the M23 rebel group’s recent offensive.
The conflict has displaced over 100,000 Congolese in just three months, with accusations of Rwandan support for the rebels, which Rwanda denies.
Recent Qatari-mediated talks between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame resulted in a ceasefire call.
While the M23 pledged to withdraw from certain areas, reports indicate their continued presence. Direct talks between the Congolese government and the M23 are expected on April 9th.